Alhassan Iddrisu projects Ghana's population will double in 33 years

Government Statistician Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu has revealed that Ghana’s population is on track to double within the next 33 years, reaching approximately 67 million by 2059. This projection is based on the current annual growth rate of 2.1 percent. Speaking on the nation's demographic trajectory, Dr. Iddrisu highlighted that while the growth rate remains significant, historical trends show that even higher rates in the past would have resulted in an even faster doubling of the population. According to data cited by the Government Statistician, Ghana’s current population stands at approximately 33.7 million. A critical component of this demographic shift is the rapid pace of urbanisation across the country. Findings from the 2021 Population and Housing Census initially showed that 56.7 percent of the population lived in urban centres. However, more recent estimates suggest this figure has already risen to roughly 60 percent, indicating a steady movement of citizens from rural areas to cities. Dr. Iddrisu noted that the sustained 2.1 percent growth rate serves as a key indicator for national planning and infrastructure development. The transition toward a majority-urban population presents both opportunities and challenges for the government, particularly regarding the provision of housing, utilities, and transportation in rapidly expanding metropolitan areas. The data underscores the importance of data-driven policy-making to manage the socio-economic impacts of a population expected to reach record levels within three decades.